Alphyns are extremely loyal companions, capable of great affection. The size of a small dog, they seem to be a mixture of many different creatures – most have manes, and all have talons and long, snake-like tongues. They are excellent hunters, long ears giving them incredibly hearing abilities, and strong jaws. They're more energetic than most creatures, and it's unusual to see one resting for long. They travel in packs, and can be very playful. Hatchlings are generally looked after by adults, and taught the skills needed to survive. Alphyns have adapted to live in very difficult climates, and are small, fierce creatures. One of the only things they're frightened of is deep water, an adversity perhaps coming from a feline part of them. An alphyn guilty of smelling can be seen running away from a vexed magi trying to wash it, a humorous sight for onlookers.

Alphyns are strange creatures, somehow resembling both lions and hounds. They are small, incredibly fast, and fearless in battle. Scaled forelegs have cruel claws capable of shredding through almost any substance. Magi training these animals will wear leather gauntlets to protect themselves, although tame alphyns only attack when threatened. They travel in packs, almost like a family, and usually leave an adult home at the lair to look after pups. When an alphyn hatches, it may be a different color than you expect. Depending on where they make their homes, they differ in looks; some can even be mane-less. In Voltar, they have adapted to match the sun and volcanoes in which they create their lairs, while those living in Silva have changed their fur to an almost green color. Sly creatures, they are wise choices when embarking on a mission that demands speed and stealth.